We are pleased to announce that Four Marks Tools has been awarded Antiques Today’s Commitment to Excellence Award.
Founded in March 2020 by Ben Parris, an Executive Head Chef by trade, Four Marks Tools has transformed into an established and profitable business that continues to grow with an excellent reputation and worldwide customer base.
In the initial stages, Four Marks Tools was sourcing stock through Facebook Marketplace. As time progressed, Ben expanded his search by purchasing tools through local advertising, car boot sales, auctions and through word of mouth.
Over the years, Ben has come across a number of treasures such as Ashem Rounding Planes, Norris hand planes, Huf Huber WW2 U boats spanners, three Braille micrometres (used by blind or visually impaired engineers), World War II Air Wardens helmet, a full Set of Marples Harlequin Chisels, World War II Mills Grenade, Mathieson Shipwrights Mast Makers Axe and a Stewart Handy worker Blacksmiths Vice which was complete, weighed 30kg and was shipped to Australia.
From a collectable standpoint, Four Marks Tools mainly deals with vintage woodworking and engineering tools but there is a huge demand for Sheffield steel tools from 1880 onwards. Modern day tools cannot compete with the workmanship and quality that the 19C manufacturers put into all their tools.
Ben also deals in old hand planes as there is a nostalgia element used by modern day carpenters however one of the biggest trends is in Militaria collectibles. World War I and World War II, specifically, are always in vogue by collectors around the world.
All tools sourced by Four Marks Tools are carefully cleaned, restored and sharpened so that they can be put back into use by tradesmen or into collectables. Nothing is disposed into landfill however the most unique selling point of Four Marks Tools is Ben himself.
The unfortunate fact is a lot of the tools sourced by Ben are from the surviving family of a loved one who has passed away. Ben prides himself on being compassionate, kind and courteous, and making sure that a fair and honest price is paid. The hope is that the families will know that the tools will be carefully restored and either put to further use by tradesmen or sold to collectors but more importantly will be appreciated for what they are.
Please see below for more information
T 07949 014889